Sharp XL520 Executive Microsystem

Sharp XL520 Executive Microsystem Review

Sharp XL520 Executive Microsystem Feature

• Two-way shielded speakers
• Full-logic cassette deck
• Front-panel optical digital output
• Full-function remote
• Preset equalization (EQ)

We recommend Sharp's XL-520 shelf system as a great low-cost upgrade to a bedroom, studio apartment, or dorm room. The system includes CD and cassette players, AM/FM tuner (antenna provided), and magnetically shielded two-way speakers that you can place near a TV or computer monitor without disturbing the picture. Working in tandem with the speakers is a two-channel line input on the back of the main component that can easily accommodate a VCR or PC audio output.

The speakers are fairly well balanced--not too bright, not too boomy or muddy--but all the same, an adjustable tone control would be nice. As it stands, the system comes with three preset EQ settings besides flat (no EQ): a bass mode that adds a little low end to the presentation, a mode that boosts the extreme low and high frequencies, and a mode that rolls off the highs (useful for softening particularly hissy tapes or noisy radio broadcasts).

One feature of the XL-520 that is unique to systems at this price is an optical digital output. Accessible from the front panel, this feature allows recording from CD to other digital media--such as MiniDisc or even a PC hard drive--where the digital feed can be compressed to MP3 or other reduced-storage audio formats.

The full-function remote is highly convenient in allowing you to adjust the volume, EQ, sound source, play mode (repeat or random), 20-track programmable memory, or sleep/timer all from the comfort of a bed or couch. When the memory is programmed but not playing any CDs, the display window shows the total time of the programmed material.

Pros:

• Shielded speakers can be placed near TV or computer monitor
• Auxiliary input can accept feed from VCR or PC
• Digital output helps with compilations on MiniDisc or MP3
• Volume control on remote

Cons:

• Cassette sound is below par
• No adjustable tone controls

Speakers dimensions: 14.13x13x13 27.5llbs (This is each speaker separately)